LEED for Homes

According to the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is "helping to deliver energy and water efficient, healthy, environmentally-friendly cost saving buildings, homes and communities.

"LEED-certified buildings cost less to operate, reducing energy and water bills by as much as 40%. Businesses and organizations across the globe use LEED to increase the efficiency of their buildings, freeing up valuable resources that can be used to create new jobs, attract and retain top talent, expand operations and invest in emerging technologies. Even more, LEED-certified buildings give back. LEED certification increases property values and LEED buildings have faster lease-up rates and may qualify for a host of incentives like tax rebates and zoning allowances."

LEED for
Homes certification levels are awarded based on the number of credits earned
from several categories:

Sustainable sites credits encourage strategies that
minimize the impact on ecosystems and water resources.

Water efficiency credits promote smarter use of water,
inside and out, to reduce potable water consumption.

Location & linkage credits encourage construction on
previously developed or infill sites and promotes walkable neighborhoods with
access to efficient transportation options and open space.

Awareness & education credits encourage home builders and real
estate professionals to provide homeowners, tenants and building managers with
the education and tools they need to understand and make the most of the green
building features of their home.

Innovation in design or innovation
in operations credits address
sustainable building expertise as well as design measures not covered under the
five LEED credit categories. Six bonus points are available in this category.

Regional priority credits address regional environmental
priorities for buildings in different geographic regions. Four bonus points are
available in this category.

Excellence
in these design, construction, and education categories can lead to LEED
certification, from the lowest, basic certification, to the silver ranking, to
gold, to the best designation, platinum.

PSL Integrated Solutions can lead builders, architects, and homeowners through the LEED certification process, from planning and design to the final rating. Whether the goal is the the lowest level of LEED certification or the highest, rigorous platinum rating, PSL Integrated has the experience to help its clients turn their ideas into reality.